Wi-Fi 6 routers are fast and inexpensive
OUR VERDICT
The RT-AX58U is a great choice for basic Wi-Fi 6 performance. It combines fast dual-band Wi -Fi 6 performance with a low price. It is easy to use with excellent parental controls and other features. Advanced users can also access the web browser interface.
- Strong Wi-Fi 6 performance
- Easy set-up
- Parental control is essential
- Wi-Fi routers at a competitive price
- Only dual-band
Review in two minutes
The Asus RTX58U will give your network Wi-Fi 6 power. It provides WiFi 6 upgrade for people who need to cover small homes or offices.
Widely available online for around PS164.99/$179.99/AU$429, the Asus RT-AX58U picks up where high-end routers like the Asus ZenWifi AX mesh systems would be overkill. This dual-band router supports Wi-Fi 6 and can also run on the 2.4GHz or 5.0GHz bands with a maximum speed of 3000Mbps.
You won’t be able to enjoy Wi-Fi speed or reliability if your mobile devices and computers don’t support Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi 6 works with 802.11ac Wi-Fi devices, so don’t worry about replacing old devices when you purchase a WiFi router.
Be aware of Asus’ model numbers. They can be confusing. There is a similar model, the RT-AX56U. It costs about PS40/$50/AU$70 less, but runs at 1800Mbps. This is still a great speed and perfect for streaming video or web browsing on a few devices. The RT-AX58U’s stronger performance will be of benefit to homes with multiple computers and mobile devices connected to Wi-Fi simultaneously.
Design and features
The Wi-Fi 6 features and performance are packed into this tiny router by Asus’ designers. The four antennas in black at the back seem serious. Each antenna angle can be adjusted to ensure you have good coverage.
The router is only 224mm in width and can be placed on any shelf with its low profile design.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Wireless connectivity: WI-Fi 6 (IEEE 8002.11ax), dual band 2.4GHz and 5.GHz
Processor: Broadcom BM43684 @1.5GHz
Memory: 512MB
Flash Storage:256MB
Beamforming Implicit & Explicit for 2.4GHz & 5GHz
Ports 1x Gigabit WAN and 4x Gigabit Network, 1x USB 3.1
Dimensions 160 x 234 x 154mm
Remember that the RTX58U does not include a modem. You will need to connect it with your existing broadband modem/router to be able to connect to the Internet.
You will find a dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port to provide that Internet connection. There are also four additional Ethernet ports available for devices that require a wired connection. Additionally, there is a USB 3.1 port that can be used for sharing USB storage devices within your home network.
Performance and setup
It is easy to get started with Asus. The manual included with the RTX58U explains how to connect everything and the two options available.
BENCHMARKS:
Ookla Speed Test — 2.4GHz
No obstructions within 5ft: 59.0/5.8Mbps. (download/upload).
Three partition walls within 30ft: 58.0/5.8Mbps (download/upload).
Ookla Speed Test- 5.0GHz
No obstructions within 5ft: 59.6/6.0Mbps download/upload
Three partition walls within 30ft: 58.0/5.8Mbps (download/upload).
20GB Steam Download – 2.4GHz
No obstructions within 5ft: 7.4MB/s
Three partition walls within 30ft: 7.3MB/s
An Ethernet cable can be used to connect the router to a Mac or a PC. You can then configure the network settings using a web browser interface.
Most people will prefer to use the Asus Router app on iOS and Android. You have the option to create a single network using the 2.4GHz or 5.0GHz bands. Or, you can set up two networks with different passwords.
There are many other features in the app, including the ability create temporary guest networks and QoS (quality of service) to prioritize certain online services such as streaming video or gaming that require top performance.
Asus has a distinct advantage over its router competitors by offering parental controls that include the ability to set up schedules for Internet usage and filters to block inappropriate material.
The RT-AX58U’s Wi-Fi 6 technology provides outstanding performance for your home wi fi network. The RT-AX58U was able to increase Wi-Fi speeds by a few Mbps when used in the same room with our 802.11ac router.
The real test in our building’s back office is where the Wi-Fi signal is not reliable enough that we rely on an Ethernet cable for our office computers. The RT-AX58U remained steady and reliable, delivering a speed of 58Mbps in the office. The download speeds of Steam were strong, at 7MB/s in every location in our building.
It’s a good deal if:
Need faster Wi-Fi?
The RT-AX58U’s 3000Mbps speed means it is fast – it is faster than most home broadband services and it will be great for streaming video, music, gaming and streaming.
There are many gadgets available.
The new Wi-Fi 6 routers can be fast but the real power lies in their ability to stream data to many devices at once. The RT-AX58U is the best choice for you if you have a lot of smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Good parental control is important
Some routers ignore the need for parental controls to protect children online. The Asus Router app offers a great set of parental controls for no additional cost.
It’s not worth the risk if…
All you want is to watch Netflix
To stream Netflix or other streaming services, you don’t necessarily need Wi-Fi 6. Current-generation 802.11ac routers are capable of giving your router an upgrade.
You are on a budget
Although Wi-Fi 6 routers can be extremely fast, they are likely too slow for most homes. A perfectly fast 802.11ac router can be had for just a little more than PS100.
You live at a mega-mansion
The RT-AX58U can be very fast for a single router but is not designed for large homes. A mesh network system that includes two or more routers is a better choice if you require wi-fi with better range and speed.
